SCHEDULE 14A
(RULE 14A-101)
INFORMATION REQUIRED IN PROXY STATEMENT
SCHEDULE 14A INFORMATION
PROXY STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 14(A) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 (AMENDMENT NO. )
x Filed by the Registrant
Filed by a Party other than the Registrant
Check the appropriate box:
x Preliminary Proxy Statement
Definitive Proxy Statement
Definitive Additional Materials
Soliciting Material Pursuant to
Rule 14a-11(c) or Rule 14a-12
Confidential, for use of the Commission
Only (as permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2))
TELESOFT CORP.
--------------
(Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)
(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if Other Than the Registrant)
Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box):
No fee required.
Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(1) and
0-11.
(1) Title of each class of securities to which transaction applies:
(2) Aggregate number of securities to which transaction applies:
(3) Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction computed
pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11:*foot1 Set forth the amount on which
the filing fee is calculated and state how it was determined.
(4) Proposed maximum aggregate value of transaction:
(5) Total fee paid:
Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange
Act Rule 0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting fee was
paid previously. Identify the previous filing by registration statement
number, or the form or schedule and the date of its filing.
(1) Amount previously paid:
(2) Form, Schedule or Registration Statement No.:
(3) Filing Party:
(4) Date Filed:
TELESOFT CORP.
3443 NORTH CENTRAL AVENUE, SUITE 1800
PHOENIX, ARIZONA 85012
_____________________
NOTICE OF
ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
_____________________
JUNE 29, 1998
_____________________
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Annual Meeting of Shareholders
("Annual Meeting") of Telesoft Corp., an Arizona corporation ("Company"), will
be held at the Company's executive offices at 3443 North Central Avenue, Suite
1800, Phoenix, Arizona 85012, on Monday, June 29, 1998, at 9:00 a.m., Mountain
Standard Time, for the following purposes, all as more fully described in the
attached Proxy Statement:
1. To elect six directors to hold office until the next Annual
Meeting of Shareholders and until their respective successors have been duly
elected and qualified;
2. To approve the Company's 1997 Performance Equity Plan;
3. To authorize an amendment to the Company's Certificate of
Incorporation to authorize 2,500,000 shares of preferred stock; and
4. To transact such other business as may properly come before
the Annual Meeting and any and all adjournments thereof.
The Board of Directors has fixed the close of business on May 29,
1998, as the record date for the determination of shareholders entitled to
notice of, and to vote at, the meeting or any adjournment thereof. The list
of shareholders entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting is available at the
Company's executive offices, 3443 North Central Avenue, Suite 1800, Phoenix,
Arizona 85012, for examination by any shareholder.
YOU ARE EARNESTLY REQUESTED TO DATE, SIGN AND RETURN THE
ACCOMPANYING FORM OF PROXY IN THE ENVELOPE ENCLOSED FOR THAT PURPOSE (TO WHICH
NO POSTAGE NEED BE AFFIXED IF MAILED IN THE UNITED STATES) WHETHER OR NOT YOU
EXPECT TO ATTEND THE MEETING IN PERSON. THE PROXY IS REVOCABLE BY YOU AT ANY
TIME PRIOR TO ITS EXERCISE AND WILL NOT AFFECT YOUR RIGHT TO VOTE IN PERSON IN
THE EVENT YOU ATTEND THE MEETING OR ANY ADJOURNMENT THEREOF. THE PROMPT
RETURN OF THE PROXY WILL BE OF ASSISTANCE IN PREPARING FOR THE MEETING AND
YOUR COOPERATION IN THIS RESPECT WILL BE APPRECIATED.
By Order of the Board of Directors
Thierry E. Zerbib, Secretary
Phoenix, Arizona
June __, 1998
6
TELESOFT CORP.
PRELIMINARY COPIES
_____________________
PROXY STATEMENT
_____________________
ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
TO BE HELD ON JUNE 29, 1998
_____________________
This Proxy Statement and the accompanying form of proxy is furnished to
shareholders of Telesoft Corp., an Arizona corporation ("Company"), in
connection with the solicitation of proxies by the Board of Directors of the
Company for use in voting at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held at
the Company's executive offices, 3443 North Central avenue, Suite 1800,
Phoenix, Arizona 85012, on Monday, June 29, 1998, at 9:00 a.m., Mountain
Standard Time, and at any and all adjournments thereof. Any proxy given
pursuant to this solicitation may be revoked by the shareholder at any time
before it is exercised by written notification delivered to the Secretary of
the Company, by voting in person at the Annual Meeting, or by delivering
another proxy bearing a later date. Attendance by a shareholder at the Annual
Meeting does not alone serve to revoke his or her proxy. Unless otherwise
specified in the form of proxy, shares represented by proxies will be voted
"FOR" the election of the nominees below under Proposal I, "FOR" the approval
of the Company's 1997 Performance Equity Plan ("1997 Plan") as described below
under Proposal II, "FOR" the approval of the amendment to the Company's
Certificate of Incorporation to authorize 2,500,000 shares of preferred stock,
and, in the discretion of the proxies named on the proxy card with respect to
any other matters properly brought before the Annual Meeting and any
adjournments thereof. In such unanticipated event that any other matters are
properly presented at the Annual Meeting for action, the persons named in the
proxy will vote the proxies in accordance with their best judgment.
The Company's executive offices are located at 3443 North Central Avenue,
Suite 1800, Phoenix, Arizona 85012. On or about June ___, 1998, this Proxy
Statement and the accompanying form of proxy, together with a copy of the
Annual Report to Shareholders for the fiscal year ended November 30, 1997, are
to be mailed to each shareholder of record at the close of business on May 29,
1998.
VOTING SECURITIES
The Board of Directors has fixed the close of business on May 29, 1998 as
the record date for the determination of shareholders of the Company who are
entitled to receive notice of, and to vote at, the Annual Meeting. Only
shareholders of record at the close of business on that date will be entitled
to vote at the Annual Meeting or any and all adjournments thereof. As of May
29, 1998, the Company had issued and outstanding 3,787,500 shares of Common
Stock, the Company's only class of voting securities outstanding. Each
shareholder of the Company will be entitled to one vote for each share of
Common Stock registered in his or her name on the record date, except for the
election of directors, in which case cumulative voting is permitted. The
presence, in person or by proxy, of a majority of the votes entitled to be
cast will constitute a quorum at the Annual Meeting. Proxies that are marked
"abstain" and proxies relating to "street name" shares that are returned to
the Company but marked by brokers as "not voted" ("broker non-votes") will be
treated as shares present for purposes of determining the presence of a quorum
on all matters unless authority to vote is completely withheld on the proxy.
The election of directors requires a plurality of votes cast at the Annual
Meeting with respect to the election of directors. "Plurality" means that the
six nominees who receive the highest number of votes cast "FOR" will be
elected as directors. Pursuant to the provisions of Arizona General
Corporation Law, at each election for directors, shareholders are entitled to
cumulate their votes by multiplying the number of votes they are entitled to
cast by the number of directors for whom they are entitled to vote and casting
the product for a single candidate or distributing the product among two or
more candidates. Accordingly, abstentions and broker non-votes will not
affect the outcome of the election of directors. The proposal to amend the
Certificate of Incorporation to authorize shares of preferred stock requires
the affirmative vote of a majority of all of the outstanding shares of the
Company's Common Stock. Accordingly, abstentions and broker non-votes will
have the same effect as a vote against the proposal. All other matters to be
considered and acted upon by the shareholders at the Annual Meeting must be
approved by a majority of the shares represented at the Annual Meeting and
entitled to vote. On any such matter, abstentions will have the same effect
as a vote against the proposal. In contrast, broker non-votes will not be
counted in determining the number of votes required for a majority and will
therefore have no effect on the outcome.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The following table sets forth certain information as of May 29, 1998,
with respect to (i) those persons or groups known to the Company to
beneficially own more than 5% of the Company's Common Stock, (ii) each
director and nominee, (iii) each executive officer whose compensation exceeded
$100,000 in the fiscal year ended November 30, 1997, and (iv) all directors
and executive officers as a group. The information is determined in
accordance with Rule 13d-3 promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 ("Exchange Act") based upon information furnished by the persons listed
or contained in filings made by them with the Securities and Exchange
Commission ("Commission"). Except as indicated below, the shareholders listed
possess sole voting and investment power with respect to their shares.
Amount and Nature of Percent
Beneficial Ownership(2) of Class
-------------------- --------
Name and Address of Beneficial Owner(1)
------------------------------------
Thierry E. Zerbib . . . . . . . . . 627,750(3) 16.4%
Brian H. Loeb. . . . . . . . . . . . 627,750(4) 16.4%
Michael F. Zerbib 624,500(5) 16.3%
Joseph W. Zerbib 345,250(6) 9.0%
Nicholas Zerbib 293,750 7.8%
Cecile Silverman 3,000(7) *
Kalvan Swanky 3,000(7) *
All executive officers and directors 2,525,000(8) 63.2%
as a group (six persons).
<FN>
______________________________
* Less than 1%.
(1) The address of each of the persons listed is c/o Telesoft Corp., 3443
North Central Avenue, Suite 1800, Phoenix, Arizona 85012.
(2) A person is deemed to be the beneficial owner of voting securities
that can be acquired by such person within 60 days from May 29, 1998 upon the
exercise of options, warrants or convertible securities. Each beneficial
owner's percentage ownership is determined by assuming that options, warrants
or convertible securities that are held by such person (but not those held by
any other person) and which are exercisable within 60 days of May 29, 1998,
have been exercised.
(3) Includes 50,250 shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of
currently exercisable options. Does not include 37,750 shares of Common Stock
underlying options, 4,000 of which vest in each of April 1999 and 2000, 7,750
of which vest in each of October 1998, 1999 and 2000 and 6,500 of which vest
in October 2001.
(4) Represents 577,500 shares of Common Stock which are owned jointly by
Mr. Loeb and his spouse and 50,250 shares of Common Stock issuable upon
exercise of currently exercisable options. Does not include 37,750 shares of
Common Stock underlying options, 4,000 of which vest in each of April 1999 and
2000, 7,750 of which vest in each of October 1998, 1999 and 2000 and 6,500 of
which vest in October 2001.
(5) Includes 52,000 shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of
currently exercisable options. Does not include 43,000 shares of Common Stock
underlying options, 4,000 of which vest in each of April 1999 and 2000, 9,500
of which vest in each of October 1998, 1999 and 2000 and 6,500 of which vest
in October 2001.
(6) Includes 51,500 shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of
currently exercisable options. Does not include 41,500 shares of Common Stock
underlying options, 4,000 of which vest in each of April 1999 and 2000, 9,000
of which vest in each of October 1998, 1999 and 2000 and 6,500 of which vest
in October 2001.
(7) Includes 2,000 shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of
currently exercisable options.
(8) Includes those shares of Common Stock deemed to be included in the
respective beneficial ownership of Messrs. Thierry E. Zerbib, Brian H. Loeb,
Michael F. Zerbib, Joseph W. Zerbib, Kalvan Swanky and Ms. Cecile Silverman as
described in notes 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 above.
PROPOSAL I: ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
The Board of Directors consists of the following six members: Joseph W.
Zerbib, Thierry E. Zerbib, Brian H. Loeb, Michael F. Zerbib, Cecile Silverman
and Kalvan Swanky. The term of the directors will expire on the date of this
year's Annual Meeting. Each director serves from the date of his election
until the end of his term and until his successor is elected and qualified.
Six persons will be elected at the Annual Meeting to serve as directors
for a term of one year and until their successors have been duly elected and
qualified. The Board of Directors has nominated Joseph W. Zerbib, Thierry E.
Zerbib, Brian H. Loeb, Michael F. Zerbib, Cecile Silverman and Kalvan Swanky
as the candidates for election. Pursuant to the provisions of Arizona General
Corporation Law, at each election for directors, shareholders are entitled to
cumulate their votes by multiplying the number of votes they are entitled to
cast by the number of directors for whom they are entitled to vote and casting
the product for a single candidate or distributing the product among two or
more candidates. In case any of the nominees become unavailable for election
to the Board of Directors, an event which is not anticipated, the persons
named as proxies, or their substitutes, shall have full discretion and
authority to vote or refrain from voting for any other candidate in accordance
with their judgment.
INFORMATION ABOUT THE NOMINEES
NAME AGE POSITION
- ----------------------- --- -----------------------------------------------------------
Joseph W. Zerbib. . . . 62 President, Principal Executive Officer and Director
Thierry E. Zerbib . . . 36 Vice President-Technologies, Secretary and Director
Brian H. Loeb . . . . . 36 Vice President-Marketing, Sales and Operations and Director
Michael F. Zerbib(1)(2) 31 Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Director
Cecile Silverman(1)(2). 73 Director
Kalvan Swanky . . . . . 34 Director
<FN>
______________________________________
(1) Member of Audit Committee.
(2) Member of Compensation Committee.
Joseph W. Zerbib has been President, Principal Executive Officer and a
director of the Company since 1982.
Thierry E. Zerbib has been Vice President-Technologies, Secretary and a
director of the Company since 1982. He holds dual degrees in computer science
and math from Tel Aviv University, Israel.
Brian H. Loeb has been Vice President-Marketing, Sales and Operations
since 1982 and a director of the Company since 1992.
Michael F. Zerbib has been Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and a
director of the Company since 1990. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in
finance and a Master's degree in taxation and financial accounting from
Arizona State University. Mr. Zerbib also holds a certification from the
Arizona State Board of Accountancy.
Cecile Silverman has been a director of the Company since June 1995. Ms.
Silverman is a certified public accountant and has been self employed since
1989. From 1975 to 1989, she was a partner at the firm of Schwartz, Cohen &
Co. Ms. Silverman specializes in tax planning for corporations and
individuals, as well as representing clients before various governmental
agencies. She graduated from Syracuse University with a degree in public
accounting.
Kalvan Swanky has been a director of the Company since June 1995. Since
1986, he has been employed by Storage Technology Corporation ("STC"), which
develops, manufactures and distributes computer memory devices. Mr. Swanky
has held a number of positions with STC, most recently as Direct Sales Manager
for Arizona and Nevada. He received a Bachelor of Science degree from the
University of Colorado.
Joseph W. Zerbib is the father of Thierry E. Zerbib and Michael F. Zerbib
and the father-in-law of Brian H. Loeb. Accordingly, Thierry E. Zerbib and
Michael F. Zerbib are brothers and Brian H. Loeb is the brother-in-law of
Thierry E. Zerbib and Michael F. Zerbib.
BOARD MEETINGS, COMMITTEES AND COMPENSATION
During the fiscal year ended November 30, 1997, the Board of Directors
held four meetings. All directors attended these meetings.
Audit Committee. The Board of Directors currently maintains an Audit
Committee, which currently is composed of Cecile Silverman and Kalvan Swanky.
The responsibilities of the Audit Committee include, in addition to such other
duties as the Board of Directors may specify, (i) receiving reports with
respect to loss contingencies, the public disclosure or financial statement
notation of which may be legally required, (ii) annually reviewing and
examining those matters that relate to a financial and performance audit of
the Company's stock option plans, (iii) recommending to the Board of Directors
the selection, retention and termination of the Company's independent
accountants, (iv) reviewing the professional services, proposed fees and
independence of such accountants, and (v) providing for the periodic review
and examination of management performance in selected aspects of corporate
responsibility. The Audit Committee held one meeting during the fiscal year
ended November 30, 1997.
Compensation Committee. The Board of Directors currently maintains a
Compensation Committee, which currently is composed of Cecile Silverman and
Kalvan Swanky. The responsibilities of the Compensation Committee include, in
addition to such other duties as the Board of Directors may specify, (i)
reviewing and recommending to the Board of Directors the salaries,
compensation and benefits of the Company's executive officers and key
employees, (ii) reviewing any related party transactions on an ongoing basis
for potential conflicts of interest, and (iii) administering the Company's
stock option plans. The Compensation Committee held two meetings during the
fiscal year ended November 30, 1997.
The members of the Board of Directors do not receive any cash
compensation for serving as directors. However, the Company may reimburse the
independent directors for their reasonable out-of-pocket expenses in
connection with their attendance at meetings. In April 1996, the Company
granted immediately exercisable options to purchase 1,000 shares of Common
Stock to each of Ms. Silverman and Mr. Swanky. The options are exercisable at
a price of $4.75 per share through April 2001 and were not granted pursuant to
any stock option plan. In October 1997, the Company granted each of Ms.
Silverman and Mr. Swanky immediately exercisable options to purchase 1,000
shares of Common Stock at a price of $2-15/16 per share through October 2002.
These options also were not granted pursuant to any stock option plan.
COMPLIANCE WITH SECTION 16(A) OF THE EXCHANGE ACT
Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act, as amended, requires the Company's
officers, directors and persons who beneficially own more than ten percent of
the Company's Common Stock to file reports of ownership and changes in
ownership with the Commission. These reporting persons also are required to
furnish the Company with copies of all Section 16(a) forms they file. To the
Company's knowledge, based solely on its review of the copies of such forms
furnished to it and representations that no other reports were required, the
Company believes that all Section 16(a) reporting requirements were complied
with during the fiscal year ended November 30, 1997.
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The following table sets forth information concerning compensation for
services in all capacities awarded to, earned by or paid to the Company's
Principal Executive Officer and each of the other most highly paid executive
officers whose compensation exceeded $100,000 for the last three fiscal years.
SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
ANNUAL COMPENSATION LONG TERM COMPENSATION (1)
AWARDS PAYOUTS
OTHER RESTIC- SECURITIES ALL
ANNUAL TED UNDERLYING OTHER
COMPEN- STOCK OPTIONS/ LTIP COMPEN-
YEAR SALARY BONUS SATION AWARDS SARS PAYOUTS SATION
NAME AND
PRINCIPAL POSITION
Joseph W. Zerbib . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1997 $ 144,000 -0- -0- -0- 26,000 -0- -0-
President and Principal Executive Officer. . . . 1996 $ 108,000 -0- -0- -0- 26,000 -0- -0-
1995 $ 120,000 -0- -0- -0- 41,000 -0- -0-
Thierry E. Zerbib. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1997 $ 144,000 -0- -0- -0- 26,000 -0- -0-
Vice President - Technologies and Secretary. . . 1996 $ 126,000 -0- -0- -0- 21,000 -0- -0-
1995 $ 120,000 -0- -0- -0- 41,000 -0- -0-
Michael F. Zerbib. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1997 $ 104,000 -0- -0- -0- 26,000 -0- -0-
Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer. . . . . . 1996 $ 100,000 -0- -0- -0- 28,000 -0- -0-
1995 $ 120,000 -0- -0- -0- 41,000 -0- -0-
Brian H. Loeb. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1997 $ 144,000 -0- -0- -0- 26,000 -0- -0-
Vice President - Marketing, Sales and Operations 1996 $ 126,000 -0- -0- -0- 21,000 0- -0-
1995 $ 120,000 -0- -0- -0- 41,000 -0- -0-
------- ----------- ---------- ------ ------- ------ ------- ------
<FN>
(1) See "Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management," "Option Grants in Fiscal 1997" and "Stock
Option and Restricted Stock Plans" below for additional information relating to options which were granted to these
executive officers.
OPTION GRANTS IN FISCAL 1997
The following table summarizes the number of shares and the terms of
stock options granted to the Company's Principal Executive Officer and each of
the other most highly paid executive officers whose compensation exceeded
$100,000 in the fiscal year ended November 30, 1997. In each case, the
exercise price exceeded the fair market value of the Common Stock on the date
of grant.
OPTION/SHARE GRANTS DURING FISCAL YEAR ENDED NOVEMBER 30, 1997
NUMBER OF EXPIRATION
SHARES UNDERLYING PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL EXERCISE PRICE MARKET PRICE DATE
NAME. . . . . . . OPTIONS OPTIONS GRANTED TO
GRANTED(1) EMPLOYEES IN FISCAL
YEAR
Joseph W. Zerbib 26,000 11.13 $ 3.23 $ 3.00 10/23/02
Thierry E. Zerbib 26,000 11.13 $ 3.23 $ 3.00 10/23/02
Michael F. Zerbib 26,000 11.13 $ 3.23 $ 3.00 10/23/02
Brian H. Loeb 26,000 11.13 $ 3.23 $ 3.00 10/23/02
- -----------------
<FN>
(1) Represents options to purchase 26,000 shares of Common Stock granted pursuant
to the terms of the 1997 Plan, 25% of which options become exercisable in each of
October 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2001.
STOCK OPTION AND RESTRICTED STOCK PLANS
INCENTIVE STOCK OPTION PLANS
1995 and 1996 Incentive Stock Option Plans. The Board of Directors
adopted the 1995 Incentive Stock Option Plan ("1995 ISO Plan") on February 1,
1995 and the 1996 Incentive Stock Option Plan ("1996 ISO Plan" and, together
with the 1995 ISO Plan, the "Plans") on April 15, 1996. The Plans
subsequently were approved by the shareholders. The terms and conditions of
the Plans are substantively similar.
There are 264,000 shares authorized for grant under the 1995 ISO Plan.
As of November 30, 1997, options to purchase 264,000 shares of Common Stock
were outstanding under the 1995 ISO Plan, which includes options to purchase
(i) 164,000 shares currently held by executive officers at an exercise price
of $6.60 per share and (ii) 100,000 shares currently held by certain employees
of the Company at an exercise price of $6.00 per share. The exercise price of
the options granted to the executive officers exceeded the fair market value
of the Common Stock on the date of grant.
There are 260,000 shares authorized for grant under the 1996 ISO Plan.
As of November 30, 1997, options to purchase 237,400 shares of Common Stock
were outstanding under the 1996 ISO Plan, which includes options to purchase
(i) 96,000 shares currently held by executive officers at exercise prices
ranging from $3.30 to $5.23 per share and (ii) 141,400 shares currently held
by certain employees of the Company at exercise prices ranging from $3.00 to
$4.75 per share. The exercise price of the options granted to the executive
officers exceeded the fair market value of the Common Stock on the date of
grant.
Each of the Plans authorizes the Company to grant to key employees both
incentive options and non-qualified options. Incentive options are qualified
options under the Internal Revenue Code. The objectives of the Plans are to
provide incentives to key employees to achieve financial results aimed at
increasing stockholder value and attracting talented individuals to the
Company. Persons eligible to participate in the Plans will be those employees
of the Company whose performance, in the judgment of the Compensation
Committee, can have significant effect on the success of the Company.
The Plans are administered by the Compensation Committee, which has the
authority to interpret their provisions, to establish and amend rules for
their administration, to determine the types and amounts of awards to be made
pursuant to the Plans, subject to the Plans' limitations, and to approve
recommendations made by management of the Company as to who should receive
awards.
Incentive stock options may be granted under the Plans for terms of up to
ten years and at an exercise price at least equal to 100% of the fair market
value of the Common Stock as of the date of grant, and 85% of the fair market
value in the case of non-statutory options, except that incentive options
granted to any person who owns stock possessing more than 10% of the combined
voting power of all classes of the Company's stock or of any parent or
subsidiary corporation must have an exercise price at least equal to 110% of
the fair market value of the Common Stock on the date of grant. The aggregate
fair market value, determined as of the time an incentive stock option is
granted, of the Common Stock with respect to which incentive stock options are
exercisable by an employee for the first time during any calendar year shall
not exceed $100,000. There is no aggregate dollar limitation on the amount of
non-statutory stock options which may be exercisable for the first time by an
employee during any calendar year. Payment of the exercise price is to be in
cash, although the Compensation Committee may, in its discretion, allow
payment in the form of shares of the Common Stock under certain circumstances.
Any option granted under the Plans will expire at the time fixed by the
Committee, which will not be more than ten years after the date it is granted.
Any employee receiving a grant must remain continuously employed by the
Company for a period of twelve months after the date of the grant, as a
condition to the exercise of the option. The Compensation Committee may also
specify when all or part of an option becomes exercisable, but in the absence
of such specification, the option will ordinarily be exercisable in whole or
part at any time during its term. In addition, optionees who are directors or
executive officers of the Company may not exercise any portion of an option
within six months of the date of grant. Subject to the foregoing, the
Compensation Committee may accelerate the exercisability of any option in its
discretion.
Options granted under the Plans are not assignable. Options may be
exercised only while the optionee is employed by the Company or within twelve
months after termination by reason of death, within twelve months after the
date of disability, or within ten days after termination for any other reason.
The Company may assist optionees in paying the exercise price of options
granted under the Plans by either the extension of a loan by the Company for
payment by the optionee of the exercise price in installments, or a guarantee
by the Company of a loan obtained by the optionee from a third party. The
terms of any loan, installment payments or guarantees, including the interest
rate and terms of repayment and collateral requirements, if any, shall be
determined by the Board of Directors in its sole discretion.
1997 Performance Equity Plan. On October 2, 1997, the Board of Directors
adopted the 1997 Plan, subject to shareholder approval at the Annual Meeting.
On May 15, 1998, the Board of Directors amended the 1997 Plan. The terms of
the 1997 Plan are described under Proposal II and are set forth in full in
Appendix A annexed hereto. The Board of Directors authorized 1,000,000 shares
for grant under the 1997 Plan. In October 1997, the Company granted options
under the 1997 Plan to purchase an aggregate of 233,500 shares of Common
Stock, 129,500 shares of which were granted to certain employees of the
Company at an exercise price of $2.9375 per share and 104,000 shares of which
were granted to the Company's executive officers at an exercise price of $3.23
per share. The exercise price of the options granted to the executive
officers exceeded the fair market value of the Common Stock on the date of
grant.
RESTRICTED STOCK PLANS
1995, 1996 and 1997 Restricted Stock Plans. The Board of Directors
adopted the 1995 Restricted Stock Plan on February 1, 1995, the 1996
Restricted Stock Plan on April 15, 1996 and the 1997 Restricted Stock Plan on
April 10, 1997. The 1995 Restricted Stock Plan was approved by the
shareholders at a Special Meeting of Shareholders held on February 1, 1995.
The 1996 Restricted Stock Plan was approved by the shareholders at the 1996
Annual Meeting held on August 7, 1996. The 1997 Restricted Stock Plan has not
yet been approved by the shareholders. No shares have been granted under any
of the Restricted Stock Plans. Accordingly, on May 15, 1998, the Board of
Directors determined that it was in the best interests of the Company
terminate the 1995, 1996 and 1997 Restricted Stock Plans. Any restricted
stock awards that the Company may wish to make in the future may be made
pursuant to the 1997 Plan, which permits the grant of restricted stock awards.
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
The Company leases 13,500 square feet of office space from Joseph W.
Zerbib, an officer, director and principal shareholder of the Company. The
Company leased this office in fiscal 1996 and 1997 on a month-to-month basis
for $6,978 per month. The Company vacated this space in January 1998, but
will continue to pay rent until July 1998.
The Board of Directors has adopted a policy that all future material
transactions and loans between the Company and its executive officers,
directors, employees and affiliates will be subject to the approval of the
majority of independent and disinterested directors and that such transactions
and loans, and any forgiveness of loans, will be on terms that are no less
favorable to the Company than those that are generally available from
unaffiliated third parties.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT SHAREHOLDERS VOTE
"FOR" THE ELECTION OF THE SIX DIRECTOR NOMINEES.
PROPOSAL II: APPROVAL OF THE 1997 PERFORMANCE EQUITY PLAN
On October 2, 1997, the Board of Directors unanimously adopted the 1997
Plan, subject to shareholder approval at the Annual Meeting. On May 15, 1998,
the Board of Directors amended the 1997 Plan. The 1997 Plan, as amended,
provides for the grant of options to purchase up to 1,000,000 shares of Common
Stock to be made to employees, officers, directors and consultants of the
Company and its subsidiaries. The 1997 Plan is intended to assist the Company
and its subsidiaries in attracting, retaining and motivating employees,
officers, directors and consultants of particular merit. The Company has two
stock option plans, the 1995 ISO Plan and the 1996 ISO Plan. The 1995 ISO
Plan has no shares available for grant and the 1996 ISO Plan has an aggregate
of 22,600 shares of Common Stock available for grant. The Board of Directors
does not believe that such remaining amount under the 1996 ISO Plan is
sufficient to carry out its compensation policy designed to attract and retain
employees, directors and consultants who contribute to the Company's success.
As of the date hereof, 233,500 options have been granted under the 1997 Plan,
which options will be terminated if shareholder approval of the 1997 Plan is
not obtained.
Although the Company believes that all material provisions of the 1997
Plan have been set forth in this Proxy Statement, this summary does not
discuss all the elements of the 1997 Plan and is qualified in its entirety by
reference to the text of the 1997 Plan, a copy of which is attached to this
proxy as Appendix A and is incorporated herein by reference.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT SHAREHOLDERS VOTE
"FOR" THE APPROVAL OF THE 1997 PLAN.
SUMMARY OF THE 1997 PLAN
Administration
The 1997 Plan is administered by the Board of Directors or by a committee
("Committee") appointed by the Board of Directors, whose members will serve at
the pleasure of the Board of Directors. If no Committee is so designated,
then the 1997 Plan will be administered by the Board of Directors. The Board
of Directors or, if appointed, Committee, has full authority, subject to the
provisions of the 1997 Plan, to award (i) Stock Options, (ii) Stock
Appreciation Rights, (iii) Restricted Stock, (iv) Deferred Stock, (v) Stock
Reload Options and/or (vi) other stock-based awards (collectively, "Awards").
Subject to the provisions of the 1997 Plan, the Board of Directors or the
Committee determines, among other things, the persons to whom from time to
time Awards may be granted ("Holders"), the specific type of Awards to be
granted (e.g., Stock Option, Restricted Stock, etc.), the number of shares
subject to each Award, share prices, any restrictions or limitations on such
Awards and any vesting, exchange, deferral, surrender, cancellation,
acceleration, termination, exercise or forfeiture provisions related to such
Awards. The interpretation and construction by the Board of Directors or the
Committee of any provisions of, and the determination of any questions arising
under, the 1997 Plan or any rule or regulation established by the Board of
Directors or the Committee pursuant to the 1997 Plan will be final, conclusive
and binding on all persons interested in the 1997 Plan.
Shares Subject to the Plan; General Terms
The 1997 Plan authorizes the granting of Awards which, upon exercise,
would allow up to an aggregate of 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock to be
acquired by the Holders of such Awards. In order to prevent the dilution or
enlargement of the rights of Holders under the 1997 Plan, the number of shares
of Common Stock authorized by the 1997 Plan is subject to adjustment by the
Board of Directors in the event of any increase or decrease in the number of
outstanding shares of Common Stock resulting from a stock dividend, stock
split, reverse stock split and certain other changes affecting all the shares
of Common Stock of the Company, as a whole. If any Award granted under the
1997 Plan is forfeited or terminated, the shares of Common Stock that were
available pursuant to such Award will again be available for distribution in
connection with Awards subsequently granted under the 1997 Plan.
Any equity security granted pursuant to the 1997 Plan must be held for
six months from the date of grant or, in the case of an option, at least six
months must elapse from the date of acquisition of the option to the date of
disposition of the option (other than upon exercise or conversion) or its
underlying equity security.
Eligibility
Subject to the provisions of the 1997 Plan, Awards may be granted to key
employees, officers, directors, consultants and other persons who are deemed
to have rendered or to be able to render significant services to the Company
or its subsidiaries and are deemed to have contributed or to have the
potential to contribute to the Company's success. Incentive Options (as
hereinafter defined) may be awarded only to persons who, at the time of such
awards, are employees of the Company or its subsidiaries.
Types of Awards
Options. The 1997 Plan provides both for "incentive stock options"
("Incentive Options") as defined in Section 422 of the Code, and for options
not qualifying as Incentive Options ("Non-qualified Options"), both of which
may be granted with any other stock-based award under the 1997 Plan. The
Board or the Committee will determine the exercise price per share of Common
Stock purchasable under an Incentive or Non-qualified Option (collectively,
"Options"). The exercise price of an Option may not be less than 100% of the
fair market value on the last trading day before the date of the grant (or in
the case of an Incentive Option granted to a person possessing at the time of
grant more than 10% of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock
of the Company, not less than 110% of such fair market value).
The Board or the Committee determines when Options are to be granted and
when they may be exercised. However, an Incentive Option may be granted only
within a ten-year period commencing on October 2, 1997 and may be exercised
only within ten years of the date of the grant (or within five years in the
case of an Incentive Option granted to a person who, at the time of the grant,
owns stock possessing more than 10% of the total combined voting power of all
classes of stock of the Company or of its parent or any subsidiary). Subject
to any limitations or conditions of the 1997 Plan and that the Board or the
Committee may impose, Options may be exercised, in whole or in part, during
the term of the Option by giving written notice of exercise to the Company
specifying the number of shares of Common Stock to be purchased. Such notice
must be accompanied by payment in full of the purchase price in cash, or at
the Company's discretion, in securities of the Company, or any combination
thereof. Options granted under the 1997 Plan are exercisable only by the
Holder during his or her lifetime. The Options granted under the 1997 Plan
may not be transferred other than by will or by the laws of descent and
distribution.
Generally, if the Holder received an option as an employee of the Company
or a subsidiary, no Option, or any portion thereof, granted under the 1997
Plan may be exercised by the Holder unless he or she is employed by the
Company or a subsidiary at the time of the exercise and has been so employed
continuously from the time the Option was granted. However, in the event the
Holder's employment with the Company is terminated due to disability, the
Option will be fully vested and the Holder may still exercise his or her
Option for a period of one year (or such other lesser period as the Board or
the Committee may specify at the time of grant) from the date of such
termination or until the expiration of the stated term of the Option,
whichever period if shorter. Similarly, should a Holder die while in the
employment of the Company or a subsidiary, the Option will be fully vested on
the date of death and his or her legal representative or legatee under his or
her will may exercise the decedent Holder's Option for a period of one year
from death (or such other greater or lesser period as the Board or the
Committee specifies at the time of grant) or until the expiration of the
stated term of the Option, whichever is shorter. Further, if the Holder's
employment is terminated without cause or due to normal retirement (upon
attaining the age of 65), then the portion of any Option that has vested by
the date of such retirement or termination may be exercised for the lesser of
three months after retirement or the balance of the Option's term.
Stock Appreciation Rights. The Board or the Committee may grant Stock
Appreciation Rights ("SARs" or singularly "SAR") in conjunction with all or
part of any Option granted under the 1997 Plan or may grant SARs on a
free-standing basis. In conjunction with Non-qualified Options, SARs may be
granted either at or after the time of the grant of such Non-qualified
Options. In conjunction with Incentive Options, SARs may be granted only at
the time of the grant of such Incentive Options. An SAR entitles the Holder
thereof to receive an amount (payable in cash and/or shares of Common Stock of
the Company, as determined by the Board or the Committee) equal to the excess
fair market value of one share of Common Stock of the Company over the SAR
price or the exercise price of the related Option, multiplied by the number of
shares subject to the SAR.
Restricted Stock Awards. The Board or the Committee may award shares of
restricted stock ("Restricted Stock") either alone or in addition to other
Awards granted under the 1997 Plan. The Board or the Committee shall
determine the restricted period during which the shares of stock may be
forfeited if, for example, the Holder's employment with the Company is
terminated. In order to enforce the forfeiture provisions, the 1997 Plan
requires that all shares of Restricted Stock awarded to the Holder remain in
the physical custody of the Company until the restrictions on such shares have
terminated.
Deferred Stock. The Board or the Committee may award shares of deferred
stock ("Deferred Stock") either alone or in addition to other Awards granted
under the 1997 Plan. The Board or the Committee shall determine the deferral
period during which time the receipt of the stock is deferred. The Award may
specify, for example, that the Holder must remain employed by the Company
during the entire deferral period in order to be issued the stock.
Stock Reload Options. A Stock Reload Option permits a Holder who
exercises an Option by delivering already owned stock (i.e., the
stock-for-stock method) to receive back from the Company a new Option (at the
current market price) for the same number of shares delivered to exercise the
Option, which new Option may not be exercised until one year after it was
granted and expires on the date the original Option would have expired (had it
not been previously exercised). The Board or the Committee may grant Stock
Reload Options in conjunction with any Option granted under the 1997 Plan. In
conjunction with Incentive Options, Stock Reload Options may be granted only
at the time of the grant of such Incentive Option. In conjunction with
Non-qualified Options, Stock Reload Options may be granted either at or after
the time of the grant of such Non-qualified Options.
Other Stock-Based Awards. The Board or the Committee may grant
performance shares and shares of stock valued with reference to the
performance of the Company, either alone or in addition to or in tandem with
Stock Options, Restricted Stock or Deferred Stock. Subject to the terms of
the 1997 Plan, the Board or the Committee has complete discretion to determine
the terms and conditions applicable to any such stock-based awards. Such
terms and conditions may require, among other things, continued employment
and/or the attainment of specified performance objectives.
Withholding Taxes
Upon the exercise of any Award granted under the 1997 Plan, the Holder
may be required to remit to the Company an amount sufficient to satisfy all
Federal, state and local withholding tax requirements prior to delivery of any
certificate or certificates for shares of Common Stock of the Company.
Subject to certain stringent limitations under the 1997 Plan and at the
discretion of the Board, the Holder may satisfy these requirements by
electing to have the Company withhold a portion of the shares to be received
upon the exercise of the Award having a value equal to the amount of the
withholding tax due under applicable federal, state and local laws.
Acceleration in Vesting
If any "person" (as such term is used in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 ("Exchange Act")), is or becomes the
"beneficial owner" (as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act), directly
or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing 25% or more of the
combined voting power of the Company's then outstanding securities in one or
more transactions, and the Board does not authorize or otherwise approve such
acquisition, then, the vesting periods of any and all Options and other Awards
granted and outstanding under the 1997 Plan shall be accelerated and all such
Options and Awards will immediately and entirely vest, and the respective
holders thereof will have the immediate right to purchase and/or receive any
and all Common Stock subject to such Options and awards on the terms set forth
in the 1997 Plan and the respective agreements respecting such Options and
Awards.
Agreements
Options, Restricted Stock, Deferred Stock, and SARs and other stock-based
awards granted under the 1997 Plan will be evidenced by agreements consistent
with the 1997 Plan in such form as the Board or the Committee may prescribe.
Neither the 1997 Plan nor agreements thereunder confer any right to continued
employment upon any Holder.
Term and Termination of the 1997 Plan
The 1997 Plan was effective as of October 2, 1997 ("Effective Date"),
subject to the approval of the 1997 Plan by the shareholders of the Company
within one year after the Effective Date. Any Awards granted under the 1997
Plan prior to such approval shall be effective when made (unless otherwise
specified by the Committee at the time of grant), but shall be conditioned
upon, and subject to, the approval of the 1997 Plan by the shareholders of the
Company. If the 1997 Plan is not so approved, all Awards granted thereunder
shall be of no effect and any Common Stock of the Company received by a Holder
shall be deemed forfeited and returned to the Company by the Holder. Unless
terminated by the Board, the 1997 Plan shall continue to remain effective
until such time as no further Awards may be granted and all Awards granted
under the 1997 Plan are no longer outstanding. Notwithstanding the foregoing,
grants of Incentive Options may only be made during the ten-year period
following the Effective Date.
Amendments to the Plan
The Board may at any time, and from time to time, amend, alter, suspend
or discontinue any of the provisions of the 1997 Plan, but no amendment,
alteration, suspension or discontinuance shall be made that would impair the
rights of a Holder of any Award theretofore granted, without his or her
consent.
Federal Income Tax Consequences
The following discussion of the federal income tax consequences of
participation in the 1997 Plan is only a summary of the general rules
applicable to the grant and exercise of stock options and does not purport to
give specific details on every variable and does not cover, among other
things, state, local and foreign tax treatment of participation in the 1997
Plan. The information is based on present law and regulations, which are
subject to being changed prospectively or retroactively.
Incentive Options. The Holder will recognize no taxable income and the
Company will not qualify for any deduction upon the grant or exercise of an
Incentive Option. Upon a disposition of the shares underlying the Option
after the later of two years from the date of grant or one year after the
issuance of the shares to the Holder, the Holder will recognize the
difference, if any, between the amount realized and the exercise price as
long-term capital gain or long-term capital loss (as the case may be) if the
shares are capital assets. The excess, if any, of the fair market value of
the shares on the date of exercise of an Incentive Option over the exercise
price will be treated as an item of adjustment in computing the alternative
minimum tax for a Holder's taxable year in which the exercise occurs and may
result in an alternative minimum tax liability for the Holder. If the Common
Stock of the Company acquired upon the exercise of an Incentive Option are
disposed of before expiration of the necessary holding period of two years
from the date of the grant of the Option and one year after the exercise of
the Option, (i) the Holder will recognize ordinary compensation income in the
taxable year of disposition in an amount equal to the excess, if any, of the
lesser of the fair market value of the shares on the date of exercise or the
amount realized on the disposition of the shares, over the exercise price paid
for such shares; and (ii) the Company will qualify for a deduction equal to
any such amount recognized, subject to the limitation that the compensation be
reasonable. The Holder will recognize the excess, if any, of the amount
realized over the fair market value of the shares on the date of exercise, if
the shares are capital assets, as short-term or long-term capital gain,
depending on the length of time that the Holder held the shares, and the
Company will not qualify for a deduction with respect to such excess. In the
case of a disposition of shares in the same taxable year as the exercise of
the Option, where the amount realized on the disposition is less than the fair
market value of the shares on the date of exercise, there will be no
adjustment since the amount treated as an item of adjustment, for alternative
minimum tax purposes, is limited to the excess of the amount realized on such
disposition over the exercise price, which is the same amount included in
regular taxable income.
Non-qualified Options. With respect to Non-qualified Options (i) upon
grant of the Option, the Holder will recognize no income; (ii) upon exercise
of the Option (if the Common Stock of the Company is not subject to a
substantial risk of forfeiture), the Holder will recognize ordinary
compensation income in an amount equal to the excess, if any, of the fair
market value of the shares on the date of exercise over the exercise price,
and the Company will qualify for a deduction in the same amount, subject to
the requirement that the compensation be reasonable; and (iii) the Company
will be required to comply with applicable Federal income tax withholding
requirements with respect to the amount of ordinary compensation income
recognized by the Holder. On a disposition of the shares, the Holder will
recognize gain or loss equal to the difference between the amount realized and
the sum of the exercise price and the ordinary compensation income recognized.
Such gain or loss will be treated as capital gain or loss if the shares are
capital assets and as short-term or long-term capital gain or loss, depending
upon the length of time that the Holder held the shares.
If the shares acquired upon exercise of a Non-qualified Option are
subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture, the Holder will recognize income
at the time when the substantial risk of forfeiture is removed and the Company
will qualify for a corresponding deduction at such time.
Stock Appreciation Rights. Upon the grant of a SAR, the Holder
recognizes no taxable income and the Company receives no deduction. The
Holder recognizes ordinary income and the Company receives a deduction at the
time of exercise equal to the cash and fair market value of Common Stock
payable upon such exercise.
Restricted Stock. A Holder who receives Restricted Stock will recognize
no income on the grant of the Restricted Stock and the Company will not
qualify for any deduction. At the time the Restricted Stock is no longer
subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture, a Holder will recognize ordinary
compensation income in an amount equal to the excess, if any, of the fair
market value of the Restricted Stock at the time the restriction lapses over
the consideration paid for the Restricted Stock. A Holder's shares are
treated as being subject to a substantial risk of forfeiture so long as his or
her sale of the shares at a profit could subject him or her to a suit under
Section 16 (b) of the Exchange Act. The holding period to determine whether
the Holder has long-term or short-term capital gain or loss begins when the
Restriction Period expires, and the tax basis for the shares will generally be
the fair market value of the shares on such date.
A Holder may elect, under Section 83(b) of the Code, within 30 days of
the transfer of the Restricted Stock, to recognize ordinary compensation
income on the date of transfer in an amount equal to the excess, if any, of
the fair market value on the date of such transfer of the shares of Restricted
Stock (determined without regard to the restrictions) over the consideration
paid for the Restricted Stock. If a Holder makes such election and thereafter
forfeits the shares, no ordinary loss deduction will be allowed. Such
forfeiture will be treated as a sale or exchange upon which there is realized
loss equal to the excess, if any, of the consideration paid for the shares
over the amount realized on such forfeiture. Such loss will be a capital loss
if the shares are capital assets. If a Holder makes an election under Section
83(b), the holding period will commence on the day after the date of transfer
and the tax basis will equal the fair market value of shares (determined
without regard to the restrictions) on the date of transfer.
On a disposition of the shares, a Holder will recognize gain or loss
equal to the difference between the amount realized and the tax basis for the
shares.
Whether or not the Holder makes an election under Section 83(b), the
Company generally will qualify for a deduction (subject to the reasonableness
of compensation limitation) equal to the amount that is taxable as ordinary
income to the Holder, in its taxable year in which such income is included in
the Holder's gross income. The income recognized by the Holder will be
subject to applicable withholding tax requirements.
Dividends paid on Restricted Stock which is subject to a substantial risk
of forfeiture generally will be treated as compensation that is taxable as
ordinary compensation income to the Holder and will be deductible by the
Company subject to the reasonableness limitation. If, however, the Holder
makes a Section 83(b) election, the dividends will be treated as dividends and
taxable as ordinary income to the Holder, but will not be deductible by the
Company.
Deferred Stock. A Holder who receives an award of Deferred Stock will
recognize no income on the grant of such award. However, he or she will
recognize ordinary compensation income on the transfer of the Deferred Stock
(or the later lapse of a substantial risk of forfeiture to which the Deferred
Stock is subject, if the Holder does not make a Section 83(b) election), in
accordance with the same rules as discussed above under the caption
"Restricted Stock."
Other Stock-Based Awards. The federal income tax treatment of Other
Stock-Based Awards will depend on the nature of any such award and the
restrictions applicable to such award.
PROPOSAL III: TO APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION
TO AUTHORIZE UP TO 2,500,000 SHARES OF PREFERRED STOCK
The Board of Directors has unanimously adopted and submitted to the
shareholders for approval an amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation
("Preferred Stock Amendment") to authorize the issuance by the Company of up
to 2,500,000 shares of preferred stock, no par value per share ("Preferred
Stock"). The Board of Directors believes that the authorization of the
Preferred Stock is in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders.
Although it has no present plans or commitments to issue any shares of
Preferred Stock, the Company believes that the availability of such a security
may prove useful in connection with financing the capital needs of the
corporation, employee incentive or compensation plans, or other purposes. The
flexibility vested in the Board of Directors would, in particular, allow the
Company to consider and, if in the best interests of the shareholders, take
advantage of acquisition opportunities. The authorization will enable the
Company to act promptly if appropriate circumstances arise which require the
issuance of such shares.
The Preferred Stock will have such designations, preferences, and
dividend, conversion, cumulative, relative, participating, optional and other
rights, including voting rights, qualifications, limitations and restrictions
as are determined by the Board of Directors. Thus, if the Preferred Stock
Amendment is approved by the shareholders, the Board of Directors would be
entitled to authorize the creation and issuance of up to 2,500,000 shares of
Preferred Stock in one or more series with such rights, limitations and
restrictions as may be determined in the Board's sole discretion, without the
expense and delay of a special shareholders' meeting, except as may be
required by applicable law or stock market or exchange requirements. Many
other public companies have authorized a class of preferred stock with similar
features.
The authorization of the shares of Preferred Stock will not, by itself,
have any effect on the rights of the holders of shares of Common Stock.
Nonetheless, the issuance of one or more series of Preferred Stock could,
depending upon the Board of Directors' determination of the rights and
preferences of the series of Preferred Stock: (i) restrict the payment of
dividends to holders of Common Stock; (ii) dilute voting power of the holders
of Common Stock to the extent that the holders of Preferred Stock are given
voting rights; (iii) dilute the equity interests and voting power of the
holders of Common Stock if the Preferred Stock is convertible into Common
Stock; and (iv) restrict the distribution of assets to the holders of the
Common Stock upon liquidation or dissolution and until the satisfaction of any
liquidation preference granted to the holders of Preferred Stock. The Board
of Directors is required by Arizona law to make any determination to issue
shares of Preferred Stock based upon its judgment as to the best interests of
the shareholders and the Company. Although the Board of Directors has no
present intention of doing so, it could issue shares of Preferred Stock
(within the limits imposed by applicable law) that could, depending on the
terms of such series, make more difficult or discourage an attempt to obtain
control of the Company by means of a merger, tender offer, proxy contest or
other means. When in the judgment of the Board of Directors such action would
be in the best interests of the shareholders and the Company, the issuance of
shares of Preferred Stock could be used to create voting or other impediments
or to discourage persons seeking to gain control of the Company, for example,
by the sale of Preferred Stock to purchasers favorable to the Board of
Directors. In addition, the Board of Directors could authorize holders of a
series of Preferred Stock to vote either separately as a class or with the
holders of Common Stock, on any merger, sale or exchange of assets by the
Company or any other extraordinary corporate transaction. The existence of
the additional authorized shares could have the effect of discouraging
unsolicited takeover attempts. The issuance of new shares could also be used
to dilute the stock ownership of a person or entity seeking to obtain control
of the Company should the Board of Directors consider the action of such
entity or person not to be in the best interests of the shareholders and the
Company.
The affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding
shares of Common Stock present in person or by proxy and entitled to vote at
the meeting is required for approval of the adoption of the Preferred Stock
Amendment.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT SHAREHOLDERS VOTE
"FOR" THE APPROVAL OF THE PREFERRED STOCK AMENDMENT.
INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
The Board of Directors has selected the independent accounting firm
of BDO Seidman LLP as the auditors of the Company for the fiscal year ending
November 30, 1998. A representative of BDO Seidman LLP, the auditors of the
Company for the fiscal year ended November 30, 1997, is expected to be present
at the Annual Meeting. The representative will have the opportunity to make a
statement and will be available to respond to appropriate questions from
shareholders.
1999 SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS
In order for shareholder proposals for the 1999 Annual Meeting of
Shareholders to be eligible for inclusion in the Company's Proxy Statement,
they must be received by the Company at its principal office in Phoenix,
Arizona not later than February __, 1999.
SOLICITATION OF PROXIES
The solicitation of proxies in the enclosed form is made on behalf
of the Company and the cost of this solicitation is being paid by the Company.
In addition to the use of the mails, proxies may be solicited personally or by
telephone or telephone using the services of directors, officers and regular
employees of the Company at nominal cost. Banks, brokerage firms and other
custodians, nominees and fiduciaries will be reimbursed by the Company for
expenses incurred in sending proxy material to beneficial owners of the
Company's stock.
OTHER MATTERS
The Board of Directors knows of no matter which will be presented
for consideration at the Annual Meeting other than the matters referred to in
this Proxy Statement. Should any other matter properly come before the Annual
Meeting, it is the intention of the persons named in the accompanying proxy to
vote such proxy in accordance with their best judgment.
Thierry E. Zerbib, Secretary
Phoenix, Arizona
June __, 1998
APPENDIX A
APPROVED BY BOARD OF DIRECTORS ON OCTOBER 2, 1997
TELESOFT CORP.
1997 PERFORMANCE EQUITY PLAN
SECTION 1. PURPOSE; DEFINITIONS.
1.1. Purpose. The purpose of the Telesoft Corp. ("Company") 1997
Performance Equity Plan ("Plan") is to enable the Company to offer to its key
employees, officers, directors and consultants whose past, present and/or
potential contributions to the Company and its Subsidiaries have been, are or
will be important to the success of the Company, an opportunity to acquire a
proprietary interest in the Company. The various types of long-term incentive
awards which may be provided under the Plan will enable the Company to
respond to changes in compensation practices, tax laws, accounting regulations
and the size and diversity of its businesses.
1.2. Definitions. For purposes of the Plan, the following terms
-----------
shall be defined as set forth below:
(a) "Agreement" means the agreement between the Company and the
Holder setting forth the terms and conditions of an award under the Plan.
(b) "Board" means the Board of Directors of the Company.
(c) "Code" means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended from
time to time, and any successor thereto and the regulations promulgated
thereunder.
(d) "Committee" means the Stock Option Committee of the Board or any
other committee of the Board, which the Board may designate to administer the
Plan or any portion thereof. If no Committee is so designated, then all
references in this Plan to "Committee" shall mean the Board.
(e) "Common Stock" means the Common Stock of the Company, no par
value per share.
(f) "Company" means Telesoft Corp., a corporation organized under the
laws of the State of Arizona.
(g) "Deferred Stock" means Stock to be received, under an award made
pursuant to Section 9, below, at the end of a specified deferral period.
(h) "Disability" means disability as determined under procedures
established by the Committee for purposes of the Plan.
(i) "Effective Date" means the date set forth in Section 13.1, below.
(j) "Fair Market Value", unless otherwise required by any applicable
provision of the Code or any regulations issued thereunder, means, as of any
given date: (i) if the Common Stock is listed on a national securities
exchange or quoted on the Nasdaq National Market or Nasdaq SmallCap Market,
the last sale price of the Common Stock in the principal trading market for
the Common Stock on the last trading day preceding the date of grant of an
award hereunder, as reported by the exchange or Nasdaq, as the case may be;
(ii) if the Common Stock is not listed on a national securities exchange or
quoted on the Nasdaq National Market or Nasdaq SmallCap Market, but is traded
in the over-the-counter market, the closing bid price for the Common Stock on
the last trading day preceding the date of grant of an award hereunder for
which such quotations are reported by the OTC Bulletin Board or the National
Quotation Bureau, Incorporated or similar publisher of such quotations; and
(iii) if the fair market value of the Common Stock cannot be determined
pursuant to clause (i) or (ii) above, such price as the Committee shall
determine, in good faith.
(k) "Holder" means a person who has received an award under the Plan.
(l) "Incentive Stock Option" means any Stock Option intended to be
and designated as an "incentive stock option" within the meaning of Section
422 of the Code.
(m) "Nonqualified Stock Option" means any Stock Option that is not an
Incentive Stock Option.\
(n) "Normal Retirement" means retirement from active employment with
the Company or any Subsidiary on or after age 65.
(o) "Other Stock-Based Award" means an award under Section 10, below,
that is valued in whole or in part by reference to, or is otherwise based
upon, Stock.
(p) "Parent" means any present or future parent corporation of the
Company, as such term is defined in Section 424(e) of the Code.
(q) "Plan" means the Telesoft Corp. 1997 Performance Equity Plan, as
hereinafter amended from time to time.
(r) "Restricted Stock" means Stock, received under an award made
pursuant to Section 8, below, that is subject to restrictions under said
Section 8.
(s) "SAR Value" means the excess of the Fair Market Value (on the
exercise date) of the number of shares for which the Stock Appreciation Right
is exercised over the exercise price that the participant would have otherwise
had to pay to exercise the related Stock Option and purchase the relevant
shares.
(t) "Stock" means the Common Stock of the Company, no par value per
share.
(u) "Stock Appreciation Right" means the right to receive from the
Company, on surrender of all or part of the related Stock Option, without a
cash payment to the Company, a number of shares of Common Stock equal to the
SAR Value divided by the exercise price of the Stock Option.
(v) "Stock Option" or "Option" means any option to purchase shares of
Stock which is granted pursuant to the Plan.
(w) "Stock Reload Option" means any option granted under Section 6.3,
below, as a result of the payment of the exercise price of a Stock Option
and/or the withholding tax related thereto in the form of Stock owned by the
Holder or the withholding of Stock by the Company.
(x) "Subsidiary" means any present or future subsidiary corporation
of the Company, as such term is defined in Section 424(f) of the Code.
SECTION 2. ADMINISTRATION.
2.1. Committee Membership. The Plan shall be administered by the
--------------------
Board or a Committee. Committee members shall serve for such term as the Board
may in each case determine, and shall be subject to removal at any time
by the Board. The Committee members, to the extent possible, shall be
"non-employee" as defined in Rule 16b-3 promulgated under the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended ("Exchange Act").
2.2. Powers of Committee. The Committee shall have full authority to
-------------------
award, pursuant to the terms of the Plan: (i) Stock Options, (ii) Stock
Appreciation Rights, (iii) Restricted Stock, (iv) Deferred Stock, (v) Stock
Reload Options and/or (vi) Other Stock-Based Awards. For purposes of
illustration and not of limitation, the Committee shall have the authority
(subject to the express provisions of this Plan):
(a) to select the officers, key employees, directors and consultants
of the Company or any Subsidiary to whom Stock Options, Stock Appreciation
Rights, Restricted Stock, Deferred Stock, Reload Stock Options and/or Other
Stock-Based Awards may from time to time be awarded hereunder.
(b) to determine the terms and conditions, not inconsistent with the
terms of the Plan, of any award granted hereunder (including, but not limited
to, number of shares, share price or other consideration, such as other
securities of the Company or other property, any restrictions or limitations,
and any vesting, exchange, surrender, cancellation, acceleration, termination,
exercise or forfeiture provisions, as the Committee shall determine);
(c) to determine any specified performance goals or such other
factors or criteria which need to be attained for the vesting of an award
granted hereunder;
(d) to determine the terms and conditions under which awards granted
hereunder are to operate on a tandem basis and/or in conjunction with or apart
from other equity awarded under this Plan and cash awards made by the
Company or any Subsidiary outside of this Plan;
(e) to permit a Holder to elect to defer a payment under the Plan
under such rules and procedures as the Committee may establish, including the
crediting of interest on deferred amounts denominated in cash and of dividend
equivalents on deferred amounts denominated in Stock;
(f) to determine the extent and circumstances under which Stock and
other amounts payable with respect to an award hereunder shall be deferred
which may be either automatic or at the election of the Holder; and
(g) to substitute (i) new Stock Options for previously granted Stock
Options, which previously granted Stock Options have higher option exercise
prices and/or contain other less favorable terms, and (ii) new awards of any
other type for previously granted awards of the same type, which previously
granted awards are upon less favorable terms.
2.3. Interpretation of Plan.
(a) Committee Authority. Subject to Section 12, below, the Committee
-------------------
shall have the authority to adopt, alter and repeal such administrative
rules, guidelines and practices governing the Plan as it shall, from time to
time, deem advisable, to interpret the terms and provisions of the Plan and
any award issued under the Plan (and to determine the form and substance of
all Agreements relating thereto), and to otherwise supervise the
administration of the Plan. Subject to Section 12, below, all decisions made
by the Committee pursuant to the provisions of the Plan shall be made in the
Committee's sole discretion and shall be final and binding upon all persons,
including the Company, its Subsidiaries and Holders.
(b) Incentive Stock Options. Anything in the Plan to the contrary
-----------------------
notwithstanding, no term or provision of the Plan relating to Incentive Stock
Options (including but limited to Stock Reload Options or Stock Appreciation
rights granted in conjunction with an Incentive Stock Option) or any Agreement
providing for Incentive Stock Options shall be interpreted, amended or
altered, nor shall any discretion or authority granted under the Plan be so
exercised, so as to disqualify the Plan under Section 422 of the Code, or,
without the consent of the Holder(s) affected, to disqualify any Incentive
Stock Option under such Section 422.
SECTION 3. STOCK SUBJECT TO PLAN.
3.1. Number of Shares. The total number of shares of Common Stock
----------------
reserved and available for distribution under the Plan shall be 1,000,000
shares. Shares of Stock under the Plan may consist, in whole or in part, of
authorized and unissued shares or treasury shares. If any shares of Stock
that have been granted pursuant to a Stock Option cease to be subject to a
Stock Option, or if any shares of Stock that are subject to any Stock
Appreciation Right, Restricted Stock, Deferred Stock award, Reload Stock
Option or Other Stock-Based Award granted hereunder are forfeited or any such
award otherwise terminates without a payment being made to the Holder in the
form of Stock, such shares shall again be available for distribution in
connection with future grants and awards under the Plan. Only net shares
issued upon a stock-for-stock exercise (including stock used for withholding
taxes) shall be counted against the number of shares available under the Plan.
3.2. Adjustment Upon Changes in Capitalization, Etc. In the event of
-----------------------------------------------
any change in the shares of Common Stock of the Company occurring as the
result of a stock split, reverse stock split, stock dividend payable in shares
of Common Stock, recapitalization, merger, consolidation, reorganization,
combination or exchange of shares, or other extraordinary or unusual event
occurring after the grant of an Award, the Committee shall determine, in its
sole discretion, whether such change equitably requires an adjustment in the
terms of any Award or the aggregate number of shares reserved for issuance
under the Plan. Any such adjustments will be made by the Committee, whose
determination will be final, binding and conclusive.
SECTION 4. ELIGIBILITY.
Awards may be made or granted to key employees, officers, directors
and consultants who are deemed to have rendered or to be able to render
significant services to the Company or its Subsidiaries and who are deemed to
have contributed or to have the potential to contribute to the success of the
Company. No Incentive Stock Option shall be granted to any person who is not
an employee of the Company or a Subsidiary at the time of grant.
SECTION 5. REQUIRED SIX-MONTH HOLDING PERIOD.
A period of not less than six months must elapse from the date of
grant of an award under the Plan, (i) before any disposition by a Holder of a
derivative security (as defined in Rule 16a-1 promulgated under the Exchange
Act) issued under this Plan or (ii) before any disposition by a Holder of any
Stock purchased or granted pursuant to an award under this Plan.
SECTION 6. STOCK OPTIONS.
6.1. Grant and Exercise. Stock Options granted under the Plan may be
------------------
of two types: (i) Incentive Stock Options and (ii) Nonqualified Stock
Options. Any Stock Option granted under the Plan shall contain such terms,
not inconsistent with this Plan, or with respect to Incentive Stock Options,
not inconsistent with the Plan and the Code, as the Committee may from time to
time approve. The Committee shall have the authority to grant Incentive Stock
Options, Non-Qualified Stock Options, or both types of Stock Options and which
may be granted alone or in addition to other awards granted under the Plan.
To the extent that any Stock Option intended to qualify as an Incentive Stock
Option does not so qualify, it shall constitute a separate Nonqualified Stock
Option. An Incentive Stock Option may be granted only within the ten-year
period commencing from the Effective Date and may only be exercised within ten
years of the date of grant (or five years in the case of an Incentive Stock
Option granted to an optionee ("10% Shareholder") who, at the time of grant,
owns Stock possessing more than 10% of the total combined voting power of all
classes of stock of the Company.
6.2. Terms and Conditions. Stock Options granted under the Plan
--------------------
shall be subject to the following terms and conditions:
(a) Exercise Price. The exercise price per share of Stock
---------------
purchasable under a Stock Option shall be determined by the Committee at the
time of grant and may not be less than 100% of the Fair Market Value of the
Stock as defined above; provided, however, that the exercise price of an
Incentive Stock Option granted to a 10% Shareholder shall not be less than
110% of the Fair Market Value of the Stock.
(b) Option Term. Subject to the limitations in Section 6.1, above,
-----------
the term of each Stock Option shall be fixed by the Committee.
(c) Exercisability. Stock Options shall be exercisable at such time
--------------
or times and subject to such terms and conditions as shall be determined by
the Committee and as set forth in Section 11, below. If the Committee
provides, in its discretion, that any Stock Option is exercisable only in
installments, i.e., that it vests over time, the Committee may waive such
installment exercise provisions at any time at or after the time of grant in
whole or in part, based upon such factors as the Committee shall determine.
(d) Method of Exercise. Subject to whatever installment, exercise
------------------
and waiting period provisions are applicable in a particular case, Stock
Options may be exercised in whole or in part at any time during the term of
the Option, by giving written notice of exercise to the Company specifying the
number of shares of Stock to be purchased. Such notice shall be
accompanied by payment in full of the purchase price, which shall be in cash
or, unless otherwise provided in the Agreement, in shares of Stock (including
Restricted Stock and other contingent awards under this Plan) or, partly in
cash and partly in such Stock, or such other means which the Committee
determines are consistent with the Plan's purpose and applicable law. Cash
payments shall be made by wire transfer, certified or bank check or personal
check, in each case payable to the order of the Company; provided, however,
that the Company shall not be required to deliver certificates for shares of
Stock with respect to which an Option is exercised until the Company has
confirmed the receipt of good and available funds in payment of the purchase
price thereof. Payments in the form of Stock shall be valued at the Fair
Market Value of a share of Stock on the date prior to the date of exercise.
Such payments shall be made by delivery of stock certificates in negotiable
form which are effective to transfer good and valid title thereto to the
Company, free of any liens or encumbrances. Subject to the terms of the
Agreement, the Committee may, in its sole discretion, at the request of the
Holder, deliver upon the exercise of a Nonqualified Stock Option a combination
of shares of Deferred Stock and Common Stock; provided that, notwithstanding
the provisions of Section 9 of the Plan, such Deferred Stock shall be fully
vested and not subject to forfeiture. A Holder shall have none of the rights
of a Shareholder with respect to the shares subject to the Option until such
shares shall be transferred to the Holder upon the exercise of the Option.
(e) Transferability. Except as may be set forth in the Agreement, no
---------------
Stock Option shall be transferable by the Holder other than by will or by
the laws of descent and distribution, and all Stock Options shall be
exercisable, during the Holder's lifetime, only by the Holder.
(f) Termination by Reason of Death. If a Holder's employment by the
------------------------------
Company or a Subsidiary terminates by reason of death, any Stock Option held
by such Holder, unless otherwise determined by the Committee at the time of
grant and set forth in the Agreement, shall be fully vested and may thereafter
be exercised by the legal representative of the estate or by the legatee
of the Holder under the will of the Holder, for a period of one year (or such
other greater or lesser period as the Committee may specify at grant) from the
date of such death or until the expiration of the stated term of such Stock
Option, whichever period is the shorter.
(g) Termination by Reason of Disability. If a Holder's employment by
-----------------------------------
the Company or any Subsidiary terminates by reason of Disability, any
Stock Option held by such Holder, unless otherwise determined by the Committee
at the time of grant and set forth in the Agreement, shall be fully vested and
may thereafter be exercised by the Holder for a period of one year (or such
other greater or lesser period as the Committee may specify at the time of
grant) from the date of such termination of employment or until the expiration
of the stated term of such Stock Option, whichever period is the shorter.
(h) Other Termination. Subject to the provisions of Section 14.3,
-----------------
below, and unless otherwise determined by the Committee at the time of grant
and set forth in the Agreement, if a Holder is an employee of the Company or a
Subsidiary at the time of grant and if such Holder's employment by the
Company or any Subsidiary terminates for any reason other than death or
Disability, the Stock Option shall thereupon automatically terminate, except
that if the Holder's employment is terminated by the Company or a Subsidiary
without cause or due to Normal Retirement, then the portion of such Stock
Option which has vested on the date of termination of employment may be
exercised for the lesser of three months after termination of employment or
the balance of such Stock Option's term.
(i) Additional Incentive Stock Option Limitation. In the case of an
--------------------------------------------
Incentive Stock Option, the aggregate Fair Market Value of Stock (determined
at the time of grant of the Option) with respect to which Incentive Stock
Options become exercisable by a Holder during any calendar year (under all
such plans of the Company and its Parent and Subsidiary) shall not exceed
$100,000.
(j) Buyout and Settlement Provisions. The Committee may at any time,
--------------------------------
in its sole discretion, offer to buy out a Stock Option previously
granted, based upon such terms and conditions as the Committee shall establish
and communicate to the Holder at the time that such offer is made.
(k) Stock Option Agreement. Each grant of a Stock Option shall be
----------------------
confirmed by, and shall be subject to the terms of, the Agreement executed by
the Company and the Holder.
6.3. Stock Reload Option. The Committee may also grant to the Holder
-------------------
(concurrently with the grant of an Incentive Stock Option and at or after
the time of grant in the case of a Nonqualified Stock Option) a Stock Reload
Option up to the amount of shares of Stock held by the Holder for at least six
months and used to pay all or part of the exercise price of an Option and, if
any, withheld by the Company as payment for withholding taxes. Such Stock
Reload Option shall have an exercise price equal to the Fair Market Value as
of the date of the Stock Reload Option grant. Unless the Committee determines
otherwise, a Stock Reload Option may be exercised commencing one year after it
is granted and shall expire on the date of expiration of the Option to which
the Reload Option is related.
SECTION 7. STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHTS.
7.1. Grant and Exercise. The Committee may grant Stock Appreciation
------------------
Rights to participants who have been, or are being granted, Options under the
Plan as a means of allowing such participants to exercise their Options
without the need to pay the exercise price in cash. In the case of a
Nonqualified Stock Option, a Stock Appreciation Right may be granted either at
or after the time of the grant of such Nonqualified Stock Option. In the
case of an Incentive Stock Option, a Stock Appreciation Right may be granted
only at the time of the grant of such Incentive Stock Option.
7.2. Terms and Conditions. Stock Appreciation Rights shall be
--------------------
subject to the following terms and conditions:
(a) Exercisability. Stock Appreciation Rights shall be exercisable
--------------
as shall be determined by the Committee and set forth in the Agreement,
subject to the limitations, if any, imposed by the Code, with respect to
related Incentive Stock Options.
(b) Termination. A Stock Appreciation Right shall terminate and
-----------
shall no longer be exercisable upon the termination or exercise of the related
Stock Option.
(c) Method of Exercise. Stock Appreciation Rights shall be
------------------
exercisable upon such terms and conditions as shall be determined by the
Committee and set forth in the Agreement and by surrendering the applicable
portion of the related Stock Option. Upon such exercise and surrender, the
Holder shall be entitled to receive a number of Option Shares equal to the SAR
Value divided by the exercise price of the Option.
(d) Shares Affected Upon Plan. The granting of a Stock Appreciation
-------------------------
Right shall not affect the number of shares of Stock available under for
awards under the Plan. The number of shares available for awards under the
Plan will, however, be reduced by the number of shares of Stock acquirable
upon exercise of the Stock Option to which such Stock Appreciation Right
relates.
SECTION 8. RESTRICTED STOCK.
8.1. Grant. Shares of Restricted Stock may be awarded either alone
-----
or in addition to other awards granted under the Plan. The Committee shall
determine the eligible persons to whom, and the time or times at which, grants
of Restricted Stock will be awarded, the number of shares to be awarded,
the price (if any) to be paid by the Holder, the time or times within which
such awards may be subject to forfeiture ("Restriction Period"), the vesting
schedule and rights to acceleration thereof, and all other terms and
conditions of the awards.
8.2. Terms and Conditions. Each Restricted Stock award shall be
--------------------
subject to the following terms and conditions:
(a) Certificates. Restricted Stock, when issued, will be represented
------------
by a stock certificate or certificates registered in the name of the
Holder to whom such Restricted Stock shall have been awarded. During the
Restriction Period, certificates representing the Restricted Stock and any
securities constituting Retained Distributions (as defined below) shall bear a
legend to the effect that ownership of the Restricted Stock (and such Retained
Distributions), and the enjoyment of all rights appurtenant thereto, are
subject to the restrictions, terms and conditions provided in the Plan and the
Agreement. Such certificates shall be deposited by the Holder with the
Company, together with stock powers or other instruments of assignment, each
endorsed in blank, which will permit transfer to the Company of all or any
portion of the Restricted Stock and any securities constituting Retained
Distributions that shall be forfeited or that shall not become vested in
accordance with the Plan and the Agreement.
(b) Rights of Holder. Restricted Stock shall constitute issued and
----------------
outstanding shares of Common Stock for all corporate purposes. The Holder
will have the right to vote such Restricted Stock, to receive and retain all
regular cash dividends and other cash equivalent distributions as the Board
may in its sole discretion designate, pay or distribute on such Restricted
Stock and to exercise all other rights, powers and privileges of a holder of
Common Stock with respect to such Restricted Stock, with the exceptions that
(i) the Holder will not be entitled to delivery of the stock certificate or
certificates representing such Restricted Stock until the Restriction Period
shall have expired and unless all other vesting requirements with respect
thereto shall have been fulfilled; (ii) the Company will retain custody of the
stock certificate or certificates representing the Restricted Stock
during the Restriction Period; (iii) other than regular cash dividends and
other cash equivalent distributions as the Board may in its sole discretion
designate, pay or distribute, the Company will retain custody of all
distributions ("Retained Distributions") made or declared with respect to the
Restricted Stock (and such Retained Distributions will be subject to the same
restrictions, terms and conditions as are applicable to the Restricted Stock)
until such time, if ever, as the Restricted Stock with respect to which such
Retained Distributions shall have been made, paid or declared shall have
become vested and with respect to which the Restriction Period shall have
expired; (iv) a breach of any of the restrictions, terms or conditions
contained in this Plan or the Agreement or otherwise established by the
Committee with respect to any Restricted Stock or Retained Distributions will
cause a forfeiture of such Restricted Stock and any Retained Distributions
with respect thereto.
(c) Vesting; Forfeiture. Upon the expiration of the Restriction
-------------------
Period with respect to each award of Restricted Stock and the satisfaction of
any other applicable restrictions, terms and conditions (i) all or part of
such Restricted Stock shall become vested in accordance with the terms of the
Agreement, subject to Section 11, below, and (ii) any Retained Distributions
with respect to such Restricted Stock shall become vested to the extent that
the Restricted Stock related thereto shall have become vested, subject to
Section 11, below. Any such Restricted Stock and Retained Distributions that
do not vest shall be forfeited to the Company and the Holder shall not
thereafter have any rights with respect to such Restricted Stock and Retained
Distributions that shall have been so forfeited.
SECTION 9. DEFERRED STOCK.
9.1. Grant. Shares of Deferred Stock may be awarded either alone or
-----
in addition to other awards granted under the Plan. The Committee shall
determine the eligible persons to whom and the time or times at which grants
of Deferred Stock will be awarded, the number of shares of Deferred Stock to
be awarded to any person, the duration of the period ("Deferral Period")
during which, and the conditions under which, receipt of the shares will be
deferred, and all the other terms and conditions of the awards.
9.2. Terms and Conditions. Each Deferred Stock award shall be
--------------------
subject to the following terms and conditions:
(a) Certificates. At the expiration of the Deferral Period (or the
------------
Additional Deferral Period referred to in Section 9.2 (d) below, where
applicable), share certificates shall be issued and delivered to the Holder,
or his legal representative, representing the number equal to the shares
covered by the Deferred Stock award.
(b) Rights of Holder. A person entitled to receive Deferred Stock
----------------
shall not have any rights of a Shareholder by virtue of such award until the
expiration of the applicable Deferral Period and the issuance and delivery of
the certificates representing such Stock. The shares of Stock issuable upon
expiration of the Deferral Period shall not be deemed outstanding by the
Company until the expiration of such Deferral Period and the issuance and
delivery of such Stock to the Holder.
(c) Vesting; Forfeiture. Upon the expiration of the Deferral Period
-------------------
with respect to each award of Deferred Stock and the satisfaction of any other
applicable restrictions, terms and conditions all or part of such
Deferred Stock shall become vested in accordance with the terms of the
Agreement, subject to Section 11, below. Any such Deferred Stock that does
not vest shall be forfeited to the Company and the Holder shall not thereafter
have any rights with respect to such Deferred Stock.
(d) Additional Deferral Period. A Holder may request to, and the
--------------------------
Committee may at any time, defer the receipt of an award (or an installment of
an award) for an additional specified period or until a specified event
("Additional Deferral Period"). Subject to any exceptions adopted by the
Committee, such request must generally be made at least one year prior to
expiration of the Deferral Period for such Deferred Stock award (or such
installment).
SECTION 10. OTHER STOCK-BASED AWARDS.
10.1. Grant and Exercise. Other Stock-Based Awards may be awarded,
- ----- --------------------
subject to limitations under applicable law, that are denominated or payable
- -----
in, valued in whole or in part by reference to, or otherwise based on, or
related to, shares of Common Stock, as deemed by the Committee to be
consistent with the purposes of the Plan, including, without limitation,
purchase rights, shares of Common Stock awarded which are not subject to any
restrictions or conditions, convertible or exchangeable debentures, or other
rights convertible into shares of Common Stock and awards valued by reference
to the value of securities of or the performance of specified Subsidiaries.
Other Stock-Based Awards may be awarded either alone or in addition to or in
tandem with any other awards under this Plan or any other plan of the Company.
10.2. Eligibility for Other Stock-Based Awards. The Committee shall
- ----- -----------------------------------------
determine the eligible persons to whom and the time or times at which grants
- -----
of such other stock-based awards shall be made, the number of shares of Common
Stock to be awarded pursuant to such awards, and all other terms and
conditions of the awards.
10.3. Terms and Conditions. Each Other Stock-Based Award shall be subject
- ----- --------------------
to such terms and conditions as may be determined by the Committee and to
Section 11, below.
SECTION 11. ACCELERATED VESTING AND EXERCISABILITY.
If any "person" (as such term is used in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the
Exchange Act), is or becomes the "beneficial owner" (as referred in Rule 13d-3
under the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company
representing 25% or more of the combined voting power of the Company's then
outstanding securities in one or more transactions, and the Board does not
authorize or otherwise approve such acquisition, then, the vesting periods of
any and all Options and other Awards granted and outstanding under the Plan
shall be accelerated and all such Options and Awards will immediately and
entirely vest, and the respective holders thereof will have the immediate
right to purchase and/or receive any and all Common Stock subject to such
Options and awards on the terms set forth in this Plan and the respective
agreements respecting such Options and Awards.
SECTION 12. AMENDMENT AND TERMINATION.
The Board may at any time, and from time to time, amend alter, suspend or
discontinue any of the provisions of the Plan, but no amendment, alteration,
suspension or discontinuance shall be made which would impair the rights of a
Holder under any Agreement theretofore entered into hereunder, without the
Holder's consent.
SECTION 13. TERM OF PLAN.
13.1. Effective Date. The Plan shall be effective as of October 2, 1997
- ----- --------------
("Effective Date"), subject to the approval of the Plan by the Company's
shareholders within one year after the Effective Date. Any awards granted
under the Plan prior to such approval shall be effective when made (unless
otherwise specified by the Committee at the time of grant), but shall be
conditioned upon, and subject to, such approval of the Plan by the Company's
shareholders and no awards shall vest or otherwise become free of restrictions
prior to such approval.
13.2. Termination Date. Unless terminated by the Board, this Plan shall
- ----- ----------------
continue to remain effective until such time no further awards may be granted
and all awards granted under the Plan are no longer outstanding.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, grants of Incentive Stock Options may only be
made during the ten year period following the Effective Date.
SECTION 14. GENERAL PROVISIONS.
14.1. Written Agreements. Each award granted under the Plan shall be
- ----- ------------------
confirmed by, and shall be subject to the terms of the Agreement executed by
- ----
the Company and the Holder. The Committee may terminate any award made under
the Plan if the Agreement relating thereto is not executed and returned to the
Company within 10 days after the Agreement has been delivered to the
Holder for his or her execution.
14.2. Unfunded Status of Plan. The Plan is intended to constitute an
- ----- -----------------------
"unfunded" plan for incentive and deferred compensation. With respect to any
- ----
payments not yet made to a Holder by the Company, nothing contained herein
shall give any such Holder any rights that are greater than those of a general
creditor of the Company.
14.3. Employees.
- ----- ---------
(a) Engaging in Competition With the Company. In the event a
----------------------------------------
Holder's employment with the Company or a Subsidiary is terminated for any
reason whatsoever, and within eighteen months after the date thereof such
Holder accepts employment with any competitor of, or otherwise engages in
competition with, the Company, the Committee, in its sole discretion, may
require such Holder to return to the Company the economic value of any award
which was realized or obtained by such Holder at any time during the period
beginning on that date which is six months prior to the date of such Holder's
termination of employment with the Company.
(b) Termination for Cause. The Committee may, in the event a
---------------------
Holder's employment with the Company or a Subsidiary is terminated for cause,
annul any award granted under this Plan to such employee and, in such event,
the Committee, in its sole discretion, may require such Holder to return to
the Company the economic value of any award which was realized or obtained by
such Holder at any time during the period beginning on that date which is six
months prior to the date of such Holder's termination of employment with the
Company.
(c) No Right of Employment. Nothing contained in the Plan or in any
----------------------
award hereunder shall be deemed to confer upon any Holder who is an employee
of the Company or any Subsidiary any right to continued employment with the
Company or any Subsidiary, nor shall it interfere in any way with the right of
the Company or any Subsidiary to terminate the employment of any Holder
who is an employee at any time.
14.4. Investment Representations. The Committee may require each person
- ----- --------------------------
acquiring shares of Stock pursuant to a Stock Option or other award under the
Plan to represent to and agree with the Company in writing that the Holder is
acquiring the shares for investment without a view to distribution thereof.
14.5. Additional Incentive Arrangements. Nothing contained in the Plan
- ----- ---------------------------------
shall prevent the Board from adopting such other or additional incentive
- --
arrangements as it may deem desirable, including, but not limited to, the
- --
granting of Stock Options and the awarding of stock and cash otherwise than
- --
under the Plan; and such arrangements may be either generally applicable or
- --
applicable only in specific cases.
- --
14.6. Withholding Taxes. Not later than the date as of which an amount
- ----- -----------------
must first be included in the gross income of the Holder for Federal income
- --
tax purposes with respect to any option or other award under the Plan, the
- --
Holder shall pay to the Company, or make arrangements satisfactory to the
- --
Committee regarding the payment of, any Federal, state and local taxes of any
- --
kind required by law to be withheld or paid with respect to such amount. If
permitted by the Committee, tax withholding or payment obligations may be
settled with Common Stock, including Common Stock that is part of the award
that gives rise to the withholding requirement. The obligations of the
Company under the Plan shall be conditioned upon such payment or arrangements
and the Company or the Holder's employer (if not the Company) shall, to the
extent permitted by law, have the right to deduct any such taxes from any
payment of any kind otherwise due to the Holder from the Company or any
Subsidiary.
14.7. Governing Law. The Plan and all awards made and actions taken
- ----- --------------
thereunder shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of
- -----
the State of New York (without regard to choice of law provisions).
14.8. Other Benefit Plans. Any award granted under the Plan shall not be
- ----- -------------------
deemed compensation for purposes of computing benefits under any retirement
plan of the Company or any Subsidiary and shall not affect any benefits under
any other benefit plan now or subsequently in effect under which the
availability or amount of benefits is related to the level of compensation
(unless required by specific reference in any such other plan to awards under
this Plan).
14.9. Non-Transferability. Except as otherwise expressly provided in the
- ----- -------------------
Plan or the Agreement, no right or benefit under the Plan may be alienated,
sold, assigned, hypothecated, pledged, exchanged, transferred, encumbranced or
charged, and any attempt to alienate, sell, assign, hypothecate, pledge,
exchange, transfer, encumber or charge the same shall be void.
14.10. Applicable Laws. The obligations of the Company with respect to
- ------ ---------------
all Stock Options and awards under the Plan shall be subject to (i) all
- --
applicable laws, rules and regulations and such approvals by any governmental
- --
agencies as may be required, including, without limitation, the Securities Act
of 1933, as amended, and (ii) the rules and regulations of any securities
exchange on which the Stock may be listed.
14.11. Conflicts. If any of the terms or provisions of the Plan or an
- ------ ---------
Agreement (with respect to Incentive Stock Options) conflict with the
- ---
requirements of Section 422 of the Code, then such terms or provisions shall
- ---
be deemed inoperative to the extent they so conflict with the requirements of
said Section 422 of the Code. Additionally, if this Plan or any Agreement does
not contain any provision required to be included herein under Section
422 of the Code, such provision shall be deemed to be incorporated herein and
therein with the same force and effect as if such provision had been set out
at length herein and therein. If any of the terms or provisions of any
Agreement conflict with any terms or provision of the Plan, then such terms or
provisions shall be deemed inoperative to the extent they so conflict with the
requirements of the Plan. Additionally, if any Agreement does not contain any
provision required to be included therein under the Plan, such provision shall
be deemed to be incorporated therein with the same force and effect as if such
provision had been set out at length therein.
14.12. Non-Registered Stock. The shares of Stock to be distributed under
- ------ --------------------
this Plan have not been, as of the Effective Date, registered under the
Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or any applicable state or foreign
securities laws and the Company has no obligation to any Holder to register
the Stock or to assist the Holder in obtaining an exemption from the various
registration requirements, or to list the Stock on a national securities
exchange.
TELESOFT CORP. - PROXY
SOLICITED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
FOR ANNUAL MEETING TO BE HELD ON JUNE 29, 1998
The undersigned shareholder(s) of TELESOFT CORP., an Arizona corporation
("Company"), hereby appoints Joseph W. Zerbib and Michael F. Zerbib, and each
of them, with full power of substitution and to act without the other, as the
agents, attorneys and proxies of the undersigned, to vote the shares standing
in the name of the undersigned at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders of the
Company to be held on June 29, 1998 and at all adjournments thereof. This
proxy will be voted in accordance with the instructions given below. If no
instructions are given, this proxy will be voted FOR all of the following
proposals:
1. Election of the following Directors:
Joseph W. Zerbib Michael F. Zerbib
Thierry E. Zerbib Cecile Silverman
Brian H. Loeb Kalvan Swanky
FOR all nominees listed above except
as marked to the contrary below
CUMULATIVE VOTES for one or more nominees as follows:
Joseph W. Zerbib_____ Michael F. Zerbib_____
Thierry E. Zerbib_____ Cecile Silverman _____
Brian H. Loeb _____ Kalvan Swanky _____
WITHHOLD AUTHORITY to vote
for all nominees listed above
INSTRUCTIONS: To withhold authority to vote for any individual nominee,
write that nominee's name
in the space below.
_____________________________________________________
2. Approval of the Company's 1997 Performance Equity Plan:
FOR AGAINST ABSTAIN
3. Authorization of an amendment to the Company's Certificate of
Incorporation to authorize
2,500,000 shares of Preferred Stock:
FOR AGAINST ABSTAIN
4. In their discretion, the proxies are authorized to vote upon such
other business as may come
before the meeting or any adjournment thereof.
Dated____________________________, 1998
______________________________________
Signature
______________________________________
Signature if held jointly
Please sign exactly as name appears above. When shares are held by joint
tenants, both should sign. When signing as attorney, executor, administrator,
trustee or guardian, please give full title as such. If a corporation, please
sign in full corporate name by President or other authorized officer. If a
partnership, please sign in partnership name by authorized person.
*